Tuesday Update-
Drowning Update Town of Varick
Seneca County Sheriff Timothy Thompson would like to update the public regarding the investigation of the car that drove in to Cayuga Lake on May 25th, 2025 in the Town of Varick.
Investigators have determined that the incident was intentional. Members of the fire department initially entered the water in an attempt to extricate the driver but were unsuccessful. This was due to cold water temperatures and depth of the lake.
The Sheriff’s Office will not be releasing the name of the victim in respect to family and friends. The Sheriff would like to thank all First Responders and witnesses who assisted during this tragic incident. If you or a loved one are in a crisis or time of need, please call 911, call Finger Lakes Lifeline 2-1-1, or contact the National Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741-741.
Update 3pm-
Seneca County Sheriff Timothy Thompson reports, on May 25th, 2025 at approximately 5:40am, dispatchers received a 911 call for the reported vehicle that had driven in to Cayuga Lake in the Town of Varick. Upon Deputies arrival, a sinking vehicle was observed approximately 175 feet from the shoreline. After interviewing witnesses, it was determined that the operator intentionally drove down a dock and into the water. At approximately 9:30am, the body of a female was recovered from inside the vehicle. This is an ongoing investigation, and the identity of the female will not be disclosed pending notification of family.
The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by members of the New York State Police, Romulus, Varick and Aurora Fire Departments. Further details will be released at a later date.
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8:08am
A recovery effort s underway in Romulus after reports of a car driving off Route 89 in to Cayuga Lake. The accident happened near the Goose Watch Winery.
The first reports came in around 5:30 Sunday morning. One person was reported to be in the car that sunk about 150 feet from shore.
State Police, Seneca County Sheriff’s Deputies and firefighters are on the scene working on the recovery.
More details when they are released.
Photos by Greg Cotterill, Finger Lakes Daily News
